Get out of town
17 nearby parks, towns and places to explore, ordered by straight-line distance.
23 miles south · straight-line distanceAbout 40 min by car (31 road miles, typical traffic, checked October 2026)
State park in Virginia, United States.
Confirm the visitor entrance, hours, reservations, access and seasonal conditions. Islands or water destinations may require different transport.
25 miles southwest · straight-line distanceAbout 40 min by car (31 road miles, typical traffic, checked October 2026)
Independent city in Virginia, United States.
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28 miles northeast · straight-line distanceAbout 40 min by car (33 road miles, typical traffic, checked October 2026)
State park in Maryland, United States.
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34 miles northwest · straight-line distanceAbout 45 min by car (39 road miles, typical traffic, checked October 2026)
City in Frederick County, Maryland, United States.
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34 miles east · straight-line distanceAbout 45 min by car (41 road miles, typical traffic, checked October 2026)
Capital city of the U.S. state of Maryland and seat of Anne Arundel County.
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34 miles northeast · straight-line distanceAbout 45 min by car (41 road miles, typical traffic, checked October 2026)
Art museum in Baltimore, Maryland, US.
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36 miles northeast · straight-line distanceAbout 55 min by car (43 road miles, typical traffic, checked October 2026)
Art museum in Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
Confirm the visitor entrance, hours, reservations, access and seasonal conditions. Islands or water destinations may require different transport.
40 miles northwest · straight-line distanceAbout 1 hr by car (56 road miles, typical traffic, checked October 2026)
2,500 acres at confluence of Virginia, West Virginia and Maryland (US) managed by the National Park Service.
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43 miles east · straight-line distanceSaved road-route estimate: 53 miles · 1 hr 15 min
Island in Queen Anne's County, Maryland, United States.
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45 miles northwest · straight-line distanceAbout 1 hr by car (50 road miles, typical traffic, checked October 2026)
Maryland state park.
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47 miles northwest · straight-line distanceAbout 1 hr 10 min by car (58 road miles, typical traffic, checked October 2026)
Historical area from the American Civil War.
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55 miles north · straight-line distanceAbout 1 hr 15 min by car (67 road miles, typical traffic, checked October 2026)
Ski Resort.
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56 miles south · straight-line distanceAbout 2 hr by car (96 road miles, typical traffic, checked October 2026)
550 acres in Virginia (US) managed by the National Park Service.
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68 miles northwest · straight-line distanceAbout 1 hr 25 min by car (78 road miles, typical traffic, checked October 2026)
Ski area in Pennsylvania, United States.
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73 miles southwest · straight-line distanceAbout 1 hr 55 min by car (92 road miles, typical traffic, checked October 2026)
195,000 acres in Virginia (US) maintained by the National Park Service.
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86 miles east · straight-line distanceAbout 2 hr by car (103 road miles, typical traffic, checked October 2026)
Capital city of the U.S. state of Delaware and seat of Kent County.
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89 miles north · straight-line distanceAbout 2 hr by car (109 road miles, typical traffic, checked October 2026)
Capital city of the U.S. state of Pennsylvania and seat of Dauphin County.
Confirm the visitor entrance, hours, reservations, access and seasonal conditions. Islands or water destinations may require different transport.
Driving times are typical estimates from the city center without live traffic, Powered by Geoapify · © OpenStreetMap contributors.
Distances are straight-line measurements from the city, not driving distance. Saved road estimates have no consistently recorded source date and are not current traffic; estimates to park centers, water locations or inconsistent routes are omitted. Named-destination route links are not verified entrances. Place descriptions come from Wikidata; photo credits below include recorded capture dates when available. A photograph does not show current conditions.
40 recreation areas and campgrounds within 48 miles, from Recreation.gov. Filter by what you want to do.
2 miles southwest · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
The George Washington Memorial Parkway was designed for recreational driving. It links sites that commemorate important episodes in American history and preserve habitat for local wildlife.
BikingHistoryPicnickingWildlife viewing
2 miles southwest · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
Glen Echo Park began in 1891 as a National Chautauqua Assembly "to promote liberal and practical education." By 1911, it transformed into DC's premier amusement park until it closed in 1968.
History
4 miles west · straight-line distanceAbout 10 min by car (6 road miles, checked October 2026)National Park Service
The picnic pavilion at the Carderock Recreation Area is a large covered pavilion, open on three sides, that accommodates a maximum of 200 people.
CampingFishingHiking
4 miles southeast · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
Rock Creek Park is truly a gem in our nation's capital. This 1,754 acre city park was officially authorized in 1890, making it the third national park to be designated by the federal government.
BikingHikingHistoryHorseback ridingPaddlingWildlife viewing
4 miles southeast · straight-line distanceAbout 15 min by car (6 road miles, checked October 2026)National Park Service
Eight group picnic areas in Rock Creek Park are available for advance reservation from April 1 through November 30. These picnic areas are available on a first-come, first-served basis from December 1 through March 31.
BikingCampingHikingHistoryRanger programs
5 miles east · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
On forested hills surrounding the nation's capital are the remnants of a complex system of Civil War fortifications. These strategic buttresses transformed the young capital into one of the world's most fortified cities.
BikingHikingHistoryPicnickingWildlife viewing
5 miles west · straight-line distanceAbout 10 min by car (7 road miles, checked October 2026)National Park Service
Scouts built the Marsden Tract Group Campground to provide access to larger campsites within easy commuting distance of the D.C. Metro area.
BikingCampingHiking
7 miles west · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
Preserving America's early transportation history, the C&O Canal began as a dream of passage to Western wealth.
BikingBoatingCampingFishingHikingHorseback ridingPaddlingWildlife viewing
7 miles west · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
At Great Falls, the Potomac River builds up speed and force as it falls over a series of steep, jagged rocks and flows through the narrow Mather Gorge. The Patowmack Canal offers a glimpse into the early history of this country.
HikingPaddling
7 miles southeast · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
In the 1930s, landscape architects transformed Mason’s Island from neglected, overgrown farmland into Theodore Roosevelt Island, a memorial to America’s 26th president.
HikingPaddlingWildlife viewing
8 miles southeast · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
On April 14, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated at Ford’s Theatre. Discover how everyday people experienced a national tragedy and how we have remembered a fallen leader.
History
8 miles southeast · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
From this distance the seat of national power appears pristine across the river, so President Johnson came here often when he needed to escape from the stresses of building a Great Society.
BikingHikingPaddlingWildlife viewing
8 miles southeast · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
This is where the nation comes to remember and where history is made. As “America’s Front Yard,” the National Mall and Memorial Parks is home to many of our country’s most iconic memorials telling the story of people and events that shaped…
Boating
8 miles southeast · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
The White House is owned by the American people and stewarded by the National Park Service. It is more than the President's residence; it is a site for protests and national discourse about what it means to be American.
History
9 miles southwest · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
No matter what your age or taste in shows, you'll find something you like onstage at Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts.
HikingHistoryPicnicking
10 miles southeast · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
The Capitol Hill Parks include several park areas east of the U.S. Capitol. Included in this group are Folger, Lincoln, Stanton, and Marion Parks, the Eastern Market and Potomac Avenue Metro stations, and several smaller land parcels such…
BikingHistoryPicnicking
11 miles southeast · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
to Anacostia Park, your neighborhood national park in the heart of Washington, DC! Enjoy exercise along the river trail or relax by the water, Anacostia Park is a breath of fresh air and a space to unwind amid a bustling city.
BikingBoatingFishingPaddlingPicnickingWildlife viewing
11 miles southeast · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
Deep within Kenilworth lies an oasis, hidden behind trees and cattails. It's a place where beavers build their homes and turtles sleep on logs. Lotus blooms rise from the muck and lilies sit on the water.
HikingHistoryPicnickingWildlife viewing
11 miles southeast · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
National Capital Parks — East invites you to explore more than 8,000 acres of scenic parkland, historic landmarks, and vibrant community spaces across Washington, D.C. and Maryland.
Biking
12 miles southeast · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
This 361 acre wooded park was once home to an earthen fort built to protect Washington, DC, during the Civil War. Today, visitors can see the fort's earthworks and escape to the great outdoors.
BikingHistoryPicnickingWildlife viewing
12 miles southeast · straight-line distanceAbout 35 min by car (22 road miles, checked October 2026)National Park Service
Fort Dupont Park has three picnic areas that groups may reserve from spring to fall each year. There are also picnic areas available on first-come, first-served (no reservation required).
BikingCampingGuided Interpretive WalksHikingHistoryPicnickingRanger programsWildlife viewing
12 miles east · straight-line distanceAbout 20 min by car (17 road miles, checked October 2026)National Park Service
Greenbelt Campground is an urban oasis just 10 miles (16 km) from Washington, D.C. This beautiful, wooded park is known for its safety, affordability, peaceful surroundings and National Park Service hospitality.
BikingCampingHikingNature educationPicnickingRanger StationRanger programsWildlife viewing
12 miles east · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
Enjoy affordable camping, hiking, and peaceful forest surroundings just ten miles from Washington, DC!
CampingHikingWildlife viewing
12 miles east · straight-line distanceAbout 20 min by car (17 road miles, checked October 2026)National Park Service
You may book a picnic areas up to six months ahead. Greenbelt Park is an urban oasis just 10 miles (16 km) from Washington, D.C. This beautiful, wooded park is known for its peaceful surroundings and National Park Service hospitality.
BikingCampingHikingPicnickingWildlife viewing
14 miles southeast · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
The diverse history of Maryland and our national heritage can be experienced at Oxon Cove Park. Through hands-on programs and other activities, you can experience farm life and how its changed over time.
BikingHikingPicnickingWildlife viewing
16 miles south · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
Fort Foote was constructed in 1863 atop Rozier's Bluff to strengthen the ring of fortifications that encircled Washington, D.C. Two of the Guns that protected Washington are still there along with the remains of the fort's earthworks.
Wildlife viewing
17 miles east · straight-line distanceFish and Wildlife Service
Patuxent Research Refuge was established in 1936 by executive order of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, and is the only wildlife refuge established to support wildlife research. Today the U.S.
BikingBirdingFishingHikingHorseback ridingHuntingPhotographyRanger programs
18 miles south · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
The 18th century Harmony Hall mansion is located on a 62.5-acre open pasture land estate along the Potomac River. This estate was purchased by the National Park Service in 1966, to preserve southern Maryland cultural heritage.
Wildlife viewing
19 miles south · straight-line distanceAbout 45 min by car (34 road miles, checked October 2026)National Park Service
Fort Hunt Park provides six picnic rental areas: Area A, Area B, Areas C1, C2, C3, and Area D. Picnic pavilions are in Area A, B, C-2 and D. Areas C-1 and C-3 are open areas with picnic tables only.
BirdingCampingGuided Interpretive WalksHikingHistoryPicnicking
20 miles south · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
Built to defend the river approach to Washington, DC, Fort Washington has stood sentry for over 200 years.
FishingHistoryPicnicking
20 miles south · straight-line distanceAbout 45 min by car (38 road miles, checked October 2026)National Park Service
Fort Washington is located 15 miles (24 km) south of Washington, D.C., along the Potomac River. It is a local favorite for picnicking, recreation and historic interest.
BirdingCampingFishingGuided Interpretive WalksHikingHistoryPhotographyPicnicking
21 miles south · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
Piscataway Park is home to bald eagles, beavers, deer, foxes, ospreys, and many other species.
BoatingFishing
31 miles southwest · straight-line distanceAbout 1 hr by car (46 road miles, checked October 2026)National Park Service
Oak Ridge Campground is a 100-site, wooded campground located in Prince William Forest Park, 35 miles (56 km) southwest of Washington, DC.
BackpackingBikingBirdingCampingFishingHikingHistoryPhotography
31 miles southwest · straight-line distanceAbout 50 min by car (43 road miles, checked October 2026)National Park Service
Prince William Forest Park is located 35 miles southwest of Washington, D.C., the park's land was set aside during the Great Depression.
CampingHikingRanger programs
32 miles southwest · straight-line distanceAbout 45 min by car (41 road miles, checked October 2026)National Park Service
Cabin Camp 3 is located in Prince William Forest Park and is one of five large cabin camp facilities located in the park. Camp 3 is the only camp where visitors can rent a single cabin. There are thirteen cabins available for rent.
BackpackingBikingBirdingCampingFishingHikingHistoryPhotography
32 miles south · straight-line distanceAbout 45 min by car (41 road miles, checked October 2026)National Park Service
Telegraph Picnic Pavilion is a covered pavilion with twelve picnic tables located in Prince William Forest Park, 35 miles (56 km) southwest of Washington, D.C.
BikingCampingHikingPicnickingWildlife viewing
33 miles southwest · straight-line distanceNational Park Service
Looking for some peace and quiet? Want to get back to nature, listen to the sounds of the nocturnal world, or simplify your life? Then come experience primitive camping at Prince William Forest Park’s Chopawamsic Backcountry Area.
BackpackingBirdingCampingFishingHikingPhotographyWildernessWildlife viewing
45 miles northwest · straight-line distanceAbout 1 hr 15 min by car (60 road miles, checked October 2026)National Park Service
The Antietam Creek Campground is located at Mile 69.4 on the C&O Canal Towpath, a few miles south of Shepherdstown on the Maryland side of the Potomac River.
BikingCampingFishingHiking
47 miles northwest · straight-line distanceAbout 1 hr 10 min by car (58 road miles, checked October 2026)National Park Service
THIS IS NOT A PUBLIC CAMPGROUND. ONLY SCOUTS AND CIVIC ORGANIZATIONS MAY USE ROHRBACH CAMPGROUND. Antietam National Battlefield is the site of the bloodiest one day battle in American history.
BikingCampingHikingHistoryRanger programs
48 miles north · straight-line distanceAbout 1 hr 5 min by car (55 road miles, checked October 2026)National Park Service
Camp Round Meadow, a four-season camp, includes four dormitories, dining hall, commercial kitchen, gymnasium and conference room. The facility accommodates a maximum of 120 people.
Camping
From the National Park Service; closures, dangers and cautions only. Check the park's page before you go.
Recreation areas and campgrounds from Recreation.gov's directory, checked October 18, 2026. Listings are not live availability: check Recreation.gov or the managing agency for open dates, fees, reservations and conditions. Directions go to the listed coordinates, which may not be the entrance. Campground driving times: Powered by Geoapify · © OpenStreetMap contributors.
This guide includes Mason Neck State Park, Manassas, Patapsco Valley State Park, Frederick, Annapolis. Places are ordered by straight-line distance. Confirm visitor access, opening hours and current travel conditions before choosing a trip.
Approximately 23 miles south in a straight line; driving takes about 40 min over 31 road miles in typical traffic (Geoapify, checked October 2026). This is not current traffic or a route to a verified visitor entrance. Use the named destination and confirm the appropriate entrance or transport.
Approximately 25 miles southwest in a straight line; driving takes about 40 min over 31 road miles in typical traffic (Geoapify, checked October 2026). This is not current traffic or a route to a verified visitor entrance. Use the named destination and confirm the appropriate entrance or transport.
Approximately 28 miles northeast in a straight line; driving takes about 40 min over 33 road miles in typical traffic (Geoapify, checked October 2026). This is not current traffic or a route to a verified visitor entrance. Use the named destination and confirm the appropriate entrance or transport.
Recreation.gov lists 16 campgrounds within 48 miles, including Carderock Recreation Area Pavilion (4 miles west), Rock Creek Park Group Picnic Areas (DC) (4 miles southeast), Marsden Tract Group Campsite (5 miles west). Check Recreation.gov for current availability, seasons and reservations.